Edith A. Ward

The world lost one of its sweetest, most gentle souls on Saint Joseph’s Day, March 19, 2015, with the passing of Edie Ward, 81. She was devoted to the Blessed Virgin; her children Christine, Rozanne, Anita, and Patrick; her grandchildren, Tommy Ward and Trey Curtis; her daughter-in-law, Cheryl Ward, and her son-in-law Henry Curtis, Jr. They will all miss her love for butterflies, the color yellow, morning sunshine, the Bellagio Conservatory, Sinatra music, stilettos, and her uncanny ability to know what it took to lift their moods and touch their hearts. Edie enjoyed life on every level with her husband and best friend, Tom Ward. Their fifty-six year love affair was full of adventures that took them from Pennsylvania, to New York, Florida, Ohio, and Nevada, which they called home after settling in Las Vegas in 1972. As a Nevadan, Edie worked as a bookkeeper for several homebuilders, including Baroque, and launched Starlite Realty with Patrick and Tom. Edie had many loves, but none more special than Christmas. She started decorating around Thanksgiving, when the Grinch came out; celebrated Tom’s birthday on November 30; and didn’t take down a single ornament until Super Bowl Sunday. This was a time of family, faith and charity for all. Edie was a foodie. Despite her own inability to cook a holiday dinner roll without burning it, she had a life-long affair with sausage and pepper sandwiches, shrimp scampi, Anita’s prime rib, and Rozie’s chocolate chip cookies, and McDonald’s french fries. Her kind heart led Edie to help so many people and organizations. She was deeply committed to Our Lady of Wisdom Church and St. Joseph Husband of Mary Church, where she served as President of the Women of St. Joseph and was committed to their mission and events for which she always ensured there were themes, invitations, decorations, and tablecloths. Her infectious personality, unending smile and passionate use of Hallmark cards software made everyone feel special. In honor of Tom’s military service, she was devoted to the Catholic War Veterans; each year making sure that every soldier was remembered. In gratitude for Angie Ruvo’s kindness 25 years ago and in memory of Rose Ward, Edie supported the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health and its goal to find a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease. There are many still here celebrating her life and spirit, including her cousin Pat Bertges, who moved to Las Vegas and worked with Edie and Tom for many years. Edie was born in Erie, Pennsylvania, December 21, 1933. Many of her friends and family remain there, including her sweet sister, Vi; numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews. Edie’s final ultimate event will be held at Our Lady of Wisdom Church, 2120 Lindell Road, Las Vegas, NV 89146. The viewing will occur March 25, 26, 27 from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with the funeral mass on March 28 at 10:00 am – tablecloths provided! A later memorial Mass will be held in Erie, Pennsylvania to celebrate Edie’s life.